Experience the fusion of flavors in these Spicy Mexican Hot Chocolate Cookies. This recipe will guide you in creating a treat that's both sweet and spicy, combining the rich taste of chocolate with the fiery kick of cayenne pepper. Let's start baking!
This recipe calls for cayenne pepper, a spice that's commonly used in Mexican cuisine to add heat to dishes. If it's not already part of your spice rack, you'll find it in the spice aisle of your supermarket. Another ingredient you might not have on hand is cream of tartar, a baking staple that's often used as a leavening agent. You can usually find it in the baking supplies section.
Ingredients for Spicy Mexican Hot Chocolate Cookies
White sugar: Provides the sweet base for the cookies, it melts under heat giving the cookies their structure. Butter: A baking essential, it adds richness and flavor to the cookies. Vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor of the other ingredients. Sea salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor. Eggs: Acts as a binding agent, holding all the ingredients together. Cream of tartar: Helps in giving the cookies a chewy texture. Baking soda: A leavening agent that helps the cookies rise. Unsweetened cocoa powder: Gives the cookies a deep chocolate flavor. Ground cinnamon: Imparts a warm, sweet-spicy flavor. Cayenne pepper: Gives the cookies a spicy kick. All-purpose flour: Provides structure to the cookies. Semisweet chocolate chips: Adds extra chocolatey goodness and texture to every bite.
One reader, Florentia Moll says:
These spicy Mexican hot chocolate cookies are a game-changer! The perfect blend of heat and sweetness, they're a delightful treat for any occasion. The rich cocoa and hint of cayenne make for a unique and irresistible flavor. I highly recommend giving them a try!
Techniques Required for Making Spicy Mexican Hot Chocolate Cookies
How to prepare the cookie dough: Combine the sugar, butter, vanilla extract, and salt in a bowl and beat until fluffy. Then, beat in the eggs and add the cream of tartar and baking soda. After that, beat in the cocoa powder, cinnamon, cayenne pepper, and flour. Finally, stir in the chocolate chips.
How to roll the cookie dough into balls: Take heaping tablespoons of the dough and roll them into balls using your hands.
How to coat the cookie dough balls: Roll the dough balls in the sugar-cinnamon mixture until they are evenly coated.
How to bake the cookies: Place the coated dough balls on the prepared baking sheets and bake in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes, or until the centers are set and the edges crack slightly.
How to cool the cookies: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
How To Make Spicy Mexican Hot Chocolate Cookies
Surprise your family with these chocolate cookies. They are inspired by Mexican flavors and have a healthy kick of spice, thanks to the added cayenne.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 1¾cupswhite sugar,divided
- 1cupsoftened butter
- 1tspvanilla extract
- ½tspsea salt
- 2large eggs
- 2tspcream of tartar
- 1tspbaking soda
- ½cupunsweetened cocoa powder
- 1tspground cinnamon,divided
- ½tspcayenne pepper
- 2¼cupsall-purpose flour
- 1cupsemisweet chocolate chips
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper.
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Beat 1½ cups sugar, butter, vanilla extract, and salt together in a bowl until fluffy. Beat in eggs; add cream of tartar and baking soda. Beat in cocoa powder, ½ teaspoon cinnamon, and cayenne powder. Beat in flour. Stir chocolate chips into the dough.
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Mix remaining ¼ cup sugar and ½ teaspoon cinnamon together in a bowl.
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Roll heaping tablespoons of dough into balls. Roll balls in the sugar-cinnamon mixture and place on the prepared baking sheets.
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Bake in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes or until centers are set and edges crack slightly. Cool on baking sheets for 5 minutes.
Nutrition
- Calories: 213.09kcal
- Fat: 10.60g
- Saturated Fat: 6.43g
- Trans Fat: 0.31g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 2.95g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.50g
- Carbohydrates: 29.49g
- Fiber: 1.47g
- Sugar: 18.60g
- Protein: 2.48g
- Cholesterol: 35.84mg
- Sodium: 100.31mg
- Calcium: 12.31mg
- Potassium: 117.21mg
- Iron: 1.12mg
- Vitamin A: 72.16µg
- Vitamin C: 0.03mg
Helpful Technique Tip for Spicy Mexican Hot Chocolate Cookies Recipe
When incorporating the cocoa powder, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper into the dough, it's important to sift these dry ingredients first. Sifting helps to remove any lumps and also aerates the mixture, resulting in a smoother, more evenly mixed dough. This will ensure that every bite of your spicy Mexican hot chocolate cookies has the perfect balance of flavors.
Time-Saving Tips for Spicy Mexican Hot Chocolate Cookies Recipe
Prep ahead: Mix the dry ingredients the night before and store in an airtight container. This will save time when you're ready to bake.
Use a cookie scoop: Using a cookie scoop will help you create uniform cookie shapes and save time on shaping each cookie by hand.
Bake in batches: If your oven can't accommodate all the cookies at once, bake them in batches to ensure even cooking and save time.
Chill the dough: Chilling the dough for at least 30 minutes will make it easier to handle and shape, saving time during the baking process.
Clean as you go: Wash and put away utensils and bowls while the cookies are baking to minimize cleanup time after the baking is done.
Substitute Ingredients For Spicy Mexican Hot Chocolate Cookies Recipe
white sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar can add a caramel-like flavor and works well as a 1:1 replacement for white sugar in baking recipes.
butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can be used as a dairy-free alternative to butter and adds a subtle coconut flavor to the cookies.
vanilla extract - Substitute with almond extract: Almond extract can provide a nutty and sweet flavor, complementing the chocolate and spices in the cookies.
sea salt - Substitute with kosher salt: Kosher salt has a similar texture and flavor profile to sea salt, making it a suitable replacement in this recipe.
eggs - Substitute with applesauce: Applesauce can act as a binding agent and add moisture to the cookies, making it a suitable egg substitute in baking.
cream of tartar - Substitute with lemon juice: Lemon juice can provide acidity and help activate the baking soda, similar to the role of cream of tartar in this recipe.
baking soda - Substitute with baking powder: Baking powder can be used as a substitute for baking soda, though it may affect the texture slightly.
unsweetened cocoa powder - Substitute with cacao powder: Cacao powder has a richer flavor and higher nutritional content compared to cocoa powder, making it a great substitute in this recipe.
ground cinnamon - Substitute with pumpkin pie spice: Pumpkin pie spice can add warmth and depth of flavor, similar to cinnamon, with the addition of other spices like nutmeg and cloves.
cayenne pepper - Substitute with smoked paprika: Smoked paprika can provide a subtle smoky flavor and mild heat, complementing the chocolate in the cookies.
all-purpose flour - Substitute with gluten-free flour blend: A gluten-free flour blend can be used to make the recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities or allergies.
semisweet chocolate chips - Substitute with dark chocolate chips: Dark chocolate chips can provide a richer and more intense chocolate flavor, enhancing the overall taste of the cookies.
Presentation Ideas for Spicy Mexican Hot Chocolate Cookies
- Elevate the cookie: Present the cookies on a sleek, modern plate to showcase their rich, chocolatey appearance.
- Garnish with cocoa powder: Lightly dust the plate with cocoa powder to add a touch of elegance and enhance the chocolate flavor.
- Incorporate a touch of heat: Pair the cookies with a small side of spiced chocolate sauce for a surprising and delightful kick.
- Add a touch of sweetness: Accompany the cookies with a dollop of whipped cream infused with a hint of vanilla to balance the spiciness.
- Create a symmetrical arrangement: Arrange the cookies in a circular pattern, ensuring each one is placed with precision and care.
- Use contrasting colors: Pair the cookies with a vibrant red berry compote to create a visually stunning and appetizing presentation.
- Incorporate a modern twist: Present the cookies on a slate serving board for a contemporary and sophisticated touch.
- Emphasize the chocolate: Drizzle a delicate chocolate ganache over the cookies to highlight their rich and indulgent nature.
- Add a touch of greenery: Garnish the plate with a sprig of fresh mint to provide a pop of color and a refreshing aroma.
- Serve with a side of Mexican hot chocolate: Accompany the cookies with a small cup of authentic Mexican hot chocolate for a complete and immersive culinary experience.
Essential Tools for Making Hot Chocolate Cookies
- Food processor: A food processor is a versatile kitchen appliance that can be used for various tasks such as chopping, pureeing, and mixing ingredients.
- Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is an essential kitchen tool used for combining ingredients and mixing batters or doughs.
- Electric mixer: An electric mixer is used to beat, whip, and mix ingredients to achieve a smooth and uniform texture.
- Baking sheets: Baking sheets are flat, metal trays used to bake cookies, pastries, and other baked goods in the oven.
- Parchment paper: Parchment paper is a non-stick paper used to line baking sheets or pans to prevent food from sticking.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Measuring cups and spoons are used to accurately measure ingredients for recipes.
- Cookie scoop: A cookie scoop is a utensil designed to portion out cookie dough, ensuring evenly sized cookies.
- Cooling rack: A cooling rack is used to cool baked goods evenly by allowing air to circulate around the food.
- Oven: An oven is a kitchen appliance used for baking, roasting, and heating food.
Storing and Freezing Spicy Mexican Hot Chocolate Cookies
- Allow the cookies to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container. They will keep at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- For longer storage, place the cooled cookies in a freezer-safe container or bag, separating layers with wax paper or parchment paper to prevent sticking. Freeze for up to 3 months.
- To thaw frozen cookies, remove them from the freezer and let them sit at room temperature for about an hour. For a quicker thaw, microwave individual cookies on high for 15-20 seconds.
- If you prefer to store cookie dough for later baking, shape the dough into balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze the dough balls until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. Store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
- When ready to bake frozen cookie dough, remove the desired number of dough balls from the freezer and let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes before rolling in the cinnamon-sugar mixture and baking as directed. You may need to add an extra minute or two to the baking time.
How To Reheat Leftover Spicy Mexican Hot Chocolate Cookies
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover spicy mexican hot chocolate cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 5-7 minutes, or until they are heated through and slightly crisp around the edges. This method will restore some of the original texture and flavor of the cookies.
For a quicker option, you can use the microwave. Place the cookies on a microwave-safe plate and heat them in 10-second intervals until they reach your desired temperature. Be careful not to overheat them, as this can cause the chocolate chips to burn and the cookies to become too soft.
If you want to add a little extra flavor and moisture to your leftover cookies, try wrapping them in a damp paper towel before microwaving. This will help to steam the cookies and keep them soft and chewy.
For a crispy exterior and a soft, gooey center, try using a toaster oven. Preheat the toaster oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the cookies on the wire rack. Toast for 2-3 minutes, or until they are heated through and slightly crisp on the outside.
If you have an air fryer, you can also use it to reheat your leftover spicy mexican hot chocolate cookies. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the cookies in the basket. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until they are heated through and slightly crisp.
Interesting Fact About Spicy Mexican Hot Chocolate Cookies
Mexican hot chocolate is traditionally made with a blend of spices, including cinnamon and cayenne pepper, which gives it a unique and spicy flavor. This recipe combines the rich flavors of Mexican hot chocolate with the classic cookie, creating a delicious and unexpected treat.
Is Making Spicy Mexican Hot Chocolate Cookies at Home Cost-Effective?
The cost-effectiveness of this spicy Mexican hot chocolate cookies recipe is quite high. The ingredients are commonly found in most households, making it a budget-friendly option. The use of cocoa powder, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper adds depth of flavor without requiring expensive ingredients. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $10, making it an affordable and delightful treat. Overall Verdict: 9/10
Are Spicy Mexican Hot Chocolate Cookies Healthy or Unhealthy?
This spicy Mexican hot chocolate cookie recipe, while undeniably delicious, is not particularly healthy. Here's why:
- The recipe contains a significant amount of sugar (1¾ cups), which can contribute to obesity, diabetes, and other health issues when consumed in excess.
- Butter, although it provides flavor and texture, is high in saturated fat, which can raise LDL (bad) cholesterol levels and increase the risk of heart disease.
- All-purpose flour is refined and lacks the fiber and nutrients found in whole grain flours.
- The recipe also includes semisweet chocolate chips, which contain added sugar and fat.
However, the recipe does incorporate some healthier ingredients, such as unsweetened cocoa powder (a good source of antioxidants) and cinnamon (known for its anti-inflammatory properties). The cayenne pepper may also provide a slight metabolism boost.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:
- Reduce the sugar content by using a sugar substitute or cutting the amount of sugar by 1/4 to 1/2 cup. You can also experiment with natural sweeteners like dates or maple syrup.
- Replace half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or almond flour to increase the fiber and nutrient content.
- Use dark chocolate chips (70% cocoa or higher) instead of semisweet chips to reduce sugar and increase the antioxidant content.
- Replace half of the butter with Greek yogurt or mashed avocado to reduce the saturated fat content while maintaining moisture.
- Add chopped nuts, such as walnuts or almonds, to increase the protein and healthy fat content.
Editor's Opinion on This Spicy Mexican Hot Chocolate Cookies Recipe
The combination of rich chocolate, warm cinnamon, and a hint of cayenne pepper in these Mexican hot chocolate cookies creates a delightful balance of flavors. The texture is perfect, with a crisp exterior and a soft, chewy center. The addition of semisweet chocolate chips adds extra richness and decadence. The recipe is straightforward and easy to follow, making it a great choice for both experienced bakers and novices. These cookies are sure to be a hit at any gathering, and the subtle heat from the cayenne pepper adds a unique and exciting twist to a classic treat.
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Why trust this Spicy Mexican Hot Chocolate Cookies Recipe:
This recipe is a delightful fusion of traditional and modern flavors, combining the richness of chocolate with the warmth of cinnamon and a hint of cayenne pepper. The use of unsweetened cocoa powder ensures a deep, intense chocolate flavor, while the addition of semisweet chocolate chips provides pockets of gooey indulgence in every bite. The careful balance of cream of tartar and baking soda guarantees a perfect rise and texture. Trust in the harmonious blend of ingredients to create a memorable and irresistible treat.
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